Rants and raves about burning topics that have caught my attention midweek, be it greedy corporate shenanigans, frustration or joy in regards to the Philly sports teams, a movie, show or DVD that has fired up my imagination, an intriguing personality, or what’s happening in the region. — Lori Hoffman, Associate Editor, Atlantic City Weekly

One of my favorite activities during the summer season is attending the numerous festivals that take place in the South Jersey region. With that in mind, here are the dates and some basic info on some of my favorite annual festivals for the month of June, beginning this weekend with the Holy Trinity Greek Festival that features fireworks and the best gyro on the planet.

JUNE
June 4-6
Holy Trinity Greek Festival, Mill Rd. and Ridge Ave., Egg Harbor Twp. The festivities begin at 5pm Thursday and Friday and noon on Saturday and Sunday and continue until well past midnight. Features delicious Greek cuisine, games and amusement rides, Greek folk dancers, Greek music and fireworks. Free admission.
June 5
Annual West Cape May Strawberry Festival is held every year on the first Saturday of June in Wilbraham Park, West Cape May, 9am-5pm, featuring Jersey fresh strawberries, strawberry shortcake, seafood, kettle corn, fresh produce, fresh barbecued meats, etc. Craft vendors, live music; free parking & admission. Call 884-9325 for information. Rain date June 6.
June 17
Chefs at the Shore, Atlantic City Aquarium, Gardner’s Basin, Atlantic City, 5:30-9pm, 348-2880, ext. 22. There will be a special appearance by Russ Newberry of TV’s Deadliest Catch, as well as live cooking demonstrations by local celebrity chefs. Guests will be able to sample all dishes, as well as premium wines and beers. Proceeds from Chefs at the Shore benefit the Atlantic City Aquarium and the Professional Chefs Association scholarship program. Tickets are $50.
June 27
24th Annual Red, White & Blueberry Festival, Bellevue Ave. at White Horse Pike (Rt. 30), Hammonton. The Blueberry Capital of the World honors New Jersey’s official state fruit from 10am-5pm with free admission and parking (free trolley from remote parking). Live music, kiddy rides, arts & crafts, a classic car show run by Cruisin’ Classics, incredible food and blueberries in every shape and form.